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Plans are gearing up for the 84th North Iowa Band Festival celebration in Downtown Mason City. The theme for the annual festival, scheduled for Memorial Day weekend (May 25-29), is “All-American Band Festival”!
Grand Marshal Award – Ruth Miller and Rosie Hussey
The North Iowa Band Festival committee is proud to honor Ruth Miller and Rosie Hussey as this year’s Grand Marshals. Miller and Hussey once worked for the Chamber of Commerce, with Miller serving as the first female executive director of a chamber of commerce west of the Mississippi in a town larger than 2500 people. Together, Miller and Hussey gave countless hours to the Festival. For both, it was truly a passion, not a job.
Miller had a successful career as a banking executive, but fondly recalls her years leading the “Big Parade.” She says her favorite memory was working with Ben E. King (“Under the Boardwalk,” “Stand by Me”) and his kindness and encouragement when inclement weather forced them to move the main stage to NIACC. Miller also recalls the challenge of searching for the brightest outfit she could find, so in case of an emergency she would be easy to spot. Her suit attire (yes, she wore a suit to Band Festival!) spanned the entire rainbow in her tenure – including hot pick and lime green!
Hussey went on to work as the Executive Director of the Girl Scout Council of North Iowa, and served as the President of the Iowa State Board of Education before retiring. But her heart has always been with Band Festival. In fact, she was honored in 2000 as the Klempnauer Award winner for her behind-the-scenes work. The committee was saddened by the news of Rosie’s recent passing. She will be honored as a Grand Marshal and family members will walk in her memory in the 84th North Iowa Band Festival parade.
The Grand Marshal Award was started in 1937 to recognize an individual or group who has made a significant contribution to the development, history, or success of the North Iowa Band Festival/Greater North Iowa Community, or a person of national prominence.
Klempnauer Award – Bill Stangler
The Klempnauer Award was started in 1993 to recognize an individual who has made a significant contribution to the development, history, or success of the North Iowa Band Festival, typically an individual or organization that works “behind the scenes” to ensure the event’s success. This year’s recipient, Bill Stangler, truly embodies the spirit of the designation.
As the City’s Operations and Maintenance Manager, Stangler works tirelessly to ensure the North Iowa Band Festival runs smoothly. Often his efforts, and his department’s efforts, are the items festival-goers don’t necessarily notice. Everything from ensuring the correct roads are closed, bleachers are in place, and tables are set up in the park. But his work with Band Festival stems far beyond what is expected for his position. Stangler truly loves the Festival and has served for decades on the Band Festival committee.
Call for Parade Entries
Entries are currently being accepted for the Band Festival parade which is scheduled to begin at 10AM on Saturday, May 27. Applications received after May 20 are subject to a $25 late fee. Placement in the parade is based upon receipt of the entry form which is available on the website (www.nibandfest.com) and at the Chamber of Commerce office.
Friends of the Festival Campaign
The Friends of the Festival campaign is underway. Charitable donations are used to support the free family entertainment offered throughout Memorial Day weekend. Contributions in any amount are greatly appreciated and should be directed to: The North Iowa Band Festival Foundation in care of the Chamber of Commerce, 9 North Federal Avenue, Mason City, IA 50401. The foundation is classified by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3 non-profit charitable organization.
